Defenders LIVE Podcast

Lora Thorson, Defenders USA
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Welcome to the Defenders LIVE community! This is where you can find information and inspiration to grow as a defender both on and off the range. www.defenders-live.com

  1. 6d ago

    Ep. 193 | The Leadership Mistake That's Quietly Destroying Marriages w/ Quentin Hafner

    In this conversation, Quentin Hafner shares what nearly two decades of counseling and coaching have taught him about leadership, responsibility, and why so many good men struggle in marriage. You’ll learn: Why leadership begins with taking ownershipThe biggest mistake couples make when conflict arisesWhy emotional connection is a skill that can be learnedHow humility creates stronger relationshipsWhat it really means to become a Black Belt Husband If you’ve ever wondered how to become a stronger husband, father, or leader, this conversation will challenge the way you think about growth. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Strong marriages are not built by chance. They are built through leadership, humility, and the willingness to grow. In this episode, Lora sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist, high performance coach, and author Quentin Hafner to challenge some of the biggest misconceptions about relationships today. After nearly twenty years of helping individuals and couples, Quentin explains why so many good men struggle in marriage, why leadership has been misunderstood, and why becoming a great husband has far more to do with developing new skills than relying on natural ability. Together, they explore emotional connection, personal responsibility, healthy masculinity, and why waiting for your spouse to change is one of the fastest ways to stay stuck. Quentin also shares the philosophy behind his book Black Belt Husband and explains why marriage should be approached with the same discipline, humility, and commitment required to earn a black belt. Whether you’re married, engaged, or simply want to become a stronger leader in every area of your life, this conversation offers practical wisdom that extends far beyond relationships. Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    Ep. 193 | The Leadership Mistake That's Quietly Destroying Marriages w/ Quentin Hafner

  2. Jul 16

    Ep. 192 | More Than Shooting. A Community That Changes Lives w/ Robyn Sandoval

    The gun is only part of the story. The real transformation happens when women discover they’re not walking alone. In this episode, Robyn Sandoval shares how A Girl & A Gun has grown into a nationwide community that’s helping women build confidence, resilience, leadership, and lasting friendships. You’ll learn:Why community matters just as much as trainingHow confidence on the range changes life off the rangeThe heartbreaking story that shaped A Girl & A Gun’s missionWhy high standards create stronger leaders If you’ve ever wondered why thousands of women are joining A Girl & A Gun, this conversation will show you it’s about much more than firearms. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. What if learning to shoot was only the beginning? In this episode of Defenders LIVE, Lora sits down with Robyn Sandoval, President and CEO of A Girl & A Gun, to talk about the mission behind one of the largest women’s firearms organizations in the country. While many people know A Girl & A Gun for firearms training and competition, Robyn reveals that its true impact reaches far beyond the range. Through intentional leadership, high standards, and a values-driven community, thousands of women are discovering confidence, purpose, and lifelong friendships that carry into every area of life. Robyn also shares the deeply personal story that shaped the heart of the organization after her daughter Kiara’s life-threatening brain tumor diagnosis. In one of the darkest seasons of her life, she experienced the power of community in a way that forever changed how A Girl & A Gun would serve women across the country. Together, Lora and Robyn explore resilience, leadership, mentorship, firearms training, and why becoming a defender is about far more than learning to shoot. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or simply looking for a community that challenges you to grow, this conversation is a reminder that strength is built together. Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations. More at AGirlandAGun.org. Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    Ep. 192 | More Than Shooting. A Community That Changes Lives w/ Robyn Sandoval

  3. Jul 9

    Ep. 191 | The Digital Battle Most Parents Don't See w/ Dr. DeAnn Regaisis

    Your kids may be fighting battles you never see. Not on the playground. Behind a screen. In this conversation, Dr. DeeAnn Regaisis shares what years of research have revealed about cyberbullying, digital safety, and the growing emotional and spiritual challenges young people face online. We discuss why so many children suffer in silence, how cyberbullying can escalate into far more dangerous situations, and why parents need more than rules. They need meaningful conversations and relationships built on trust. We also explore why Ephesians 6 is more relevant than ever, what it means to equip our children with the full armor of God, and how families can intentionally prepare the next generation to navigate a digital world with wisdom, courage, and discernment. If we want to raise defenders, we must first prepare them for the battles they cannot see. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. In this conversation with Dr. DeeAnn Regaisis, we discuss why cyberbullying is more than kids being mean online and how parents can better prepare their children for the emotional and spiritual challenges of today’s digital world. You’ll learn: • Why kids often stay silent about cyberbullying• How online conflict can escalate into much more serious dangers• Practical ways to start meaningful conversations at home• Why the full armor of God matters in the digital age• How to help your children build resilience instead of fear Our children don’t just need screen limits. They need truth, discernment, and relationships that make them feel safe enough to ask for help. Watch now on YouTube or Defenders-LIVE.com.Learn more at www.Plus3forcybersafety.orgNewsletter with information discussed in the interview: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/86d57d9407.html Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    Ep. 191 | The Digital Battle Most Parents Don't See w/ Dr. DeAnn Regaisis

  4. Jul 2

    Ep. 190 | The Difference Between Transactional and Transformational Living w/ Ryan Luchau

    After returning from deployment and struggling with chronic fatigue, chronic pain, and nervous system dysregulation, Ryan began a journey that would change the course of his life. What started as a search for answers eventually led him into functional health, genetics, faith-based coaching, and a deeper understanding of what it means to steward the body, mind, and soul God has entrusted to us. In this conversation, we discuss temple optimization, nervous system regulation, genetics, identity, purpose, stewardship, and why so many people unknowingly live transactionally instead of transformationally. Ryan shares lessons from military service, leading Impact Montana, overcoming burnout, and launching Mission Mindset Solutions to help others pursue health through a faith-centered lens. Most people are trying to fix symptoms. Very few are asking better questions. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. In this episode, Ryan Luchau shares the lessons he learned through military service, chronic health challenges, burnout, faith, and years of helping veterans and first responders find a path forward. You’ll learn: • The difference between transactional and transformational living• Why identity and purpose matter more than outcomes• How small daily choices shape the person you become• Why stewardship matters in your life• How physical health impacts spiritual health Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations. Learn more at MissionMindsetSolutions.com Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    Ep. 190 | The Difference Between Transactional and Transformational Living w/ Ryan Luchau

  5. Jun 25

    Ep. 189 | The Psychology of Peak Performance w/ Green Beret Kirk Holmer

    Most people think performance is determined in the moment. Kirk Holmer disagrees. A retired Army Special Forces Senior Sergeant, three-time Tactical Games National Champion, and student of human performance, Kirk has spent decades studying what separates those who perform under pressure from those who fall apart when the stakes are high. In this conversation, we explore the psychology of confidence, the power of self-talk, the role of identity in performance, and why the story you tell yourself may be shaping far more of your future than you realize. Kirk shares lessons from elite military training, competitive shooting, athletics, and life that challenge the way many of us think about success, resilience, and mental toughness. We also discuss grit, goal setting, pressure, failure, and why confidence is not something you’re born with. It’s something you build through preparation, repetition, and keeping promises to yourself. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, performance anxiety, or the feeling that you’re capable of more than you’re currently achieving, this conversation will give you practical tools and a new perspective on what it takes to grow. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. You’ll learn: Why the story you tell yourself mattersHow confidence is built through actionWhat grit actually isHow to stay focused under pressureWhy process goals matter more than outcome goals Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future conversations. Check out www.TotalOperatorChallenge.com Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    Ep. 189 | The Psychology of Peak Performance w/ Green Beret Kirk Holmer

  6. Jun 18

    Ep. 188 | The Difference Between Heroes and Hollywood w/ NYT Bestselling Author John Gilstrap

    John Gilstrap has spent a lifetime studying courage from every angle. Before becoming a New York Times bestselling author with more than 30 books to his name, John spent 15 years in fire and rescue, responding to some of the worst moments in people’s lives. Later, while researching real-world special operations missions, he earned rare access to Delta Force operators, military leaders, and the true story behind one of the most daring hostage rescues in modern history. In this conversation, we go far beyond books and movies. We talk about trust, leadership under pressure, what real violence looks like, and why the people most capable of protecting others are often the least interested in talking about themselves. John shares lessons from emergency response, special operations, marriage, storytelling, and a lifetime of walking toward difficult situations when others were running away. We also discuss the responsibility that comes with being prepared, the importance of strong teams, the dangers of Hollywood myths, and why leadership is often less about authority and more about earning trust. At its core, this conversation is about what it means to be a defender. Not someone who seeks attention or recognition, but someone who quietly accepts responsibility when the stakes are high. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, consider becoming a paid subscriber. In this episode, bestselling author and former firefighter John Gilstrap shares lessons learned from emergency response, special operations, leadership, and a lifetime of serving others. You’ll learn: What real courage looks like under pressureWhy trust is earned one decision at a timeWhat Hollywood gets wrong about violence and preparednessHow great leaders inspire others to followWhy defenders accept responsibility before they feel ready www.johngilstrap.com Watch more at Defenders-LIVE.com and subscribe for future conversations. Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    Ep. 188 | The Difference Between Heroes and Hollywood w/ NYT Bestselling Author John Gilstrap

  7. Jun 11

    Ep. 187 | The Courage to Keep Showing Up | 2A Advocate & Instructor Dakota Adelphia

    Most people quit when things get hard. Dakota Adelphia chose a different path. From teaching herself through educational setbacks, to biking across America at fifteen, to becoming one of the leading voices in concealed carry education, Dakota’s story is a masterclass in grit, responsibility, and courage. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why doing hard things builds confidence that can’t be faked• How personal responsibility creates real freedom• The mindset behind effective self-defense and preparedness• Why community matters when you’re standing for your convictions Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our LIVE group calls and help continue this mission, become a paid subscriber. In this powerful conversation, Dakota Adelphia shares a remarkable journey of resilience, responsibility, and purpose. From overcoming an unconventional childhood education and biking across America at fifteen years old to becoming a respected firearms instructor, concealed carry educator, and Second Amendment advocate in California, Dakota’s story is a testament to grit, faith, and refusing to quit. Lora and Dakota dive into the mindset behind personal protection, the importance of doing hard things, and why confidence is built through preparation, not comfort. They also explore Dakota’s work with A Girl and a Gun, her mission to help women become capable defenders, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, community, and serving others without becoming bitter along the way. Watch more conversations that strengthen your mindset, deepen your faith, and challenge you to live boldly at Defenders LIVE. Subscribe for future episodes and visit Defenders-LIVE.com for more inspiring content. www.dakotaadelphia.com https://www.youtube.com/@GunOwnersRadio https://www.facebook.com/dakota.adelphia https://www.instagram.com/lifewithadelphia/ Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    Ep. 187 | The Courage to Keep Showing Up | 2A Advocate & Instructor Dakota Adelphia

  8. Jun 4

    Ep. 186 | He Lost Everything… Then God Told Him to Get Up | Tyler Tharp’s Story

    What if the hardest battle you’ll ever fight is the one inside your own mind? In this powerful conversation, Tyler Tharp opens up about: Losing his father the night he came home from the ArmyBattling anger, hopelessness, and self-destructionThe moment God told him, “Get up. I’m not done with you yet.”Why discipline includes rest and recoveryHow faith transformed the way he sees purpose, love, and masculinity This episode is real, raw, and full of hard-earned wisdom for anyone carrying heavy burdens or searching for deeper meaning in life. Defenders LIVE is supported by you. To join our live group calls, become a paid subscriber. In this deeply honest conversation, Lora sits down with firearms instructor and coach Tyler Tharp to unpack the painful journey that shaped his faith, mindset, and purpose. Tyler shares the devastating losses that defined his early adulthood, including losing his father the night he returned home from the Army, battling anger and self-destruction, and ultimately reaching a breaking point that forced him to confront his mental and spiritual health head-on. Together, they explore the connection between discipline and rest, the trap of tying self-worth to achievement, and the healing that comes through surrendering control to God. This episode is raw, thoughtful, and deeply relatable for anyone who feels exhausted from trying to carry life on their own strength. It’s a conversation about resilience, purpose, forgiveness, and learning that true strength starts in the heart. Watch more conversations at Defenders-LIVE.com or subscribe for future episodes focused on courage, faith, mindset, and personal growth. Thanks for reading Defenders LIVE! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.defenders-live.com/subscribe

    Ep. 186 | He Lost Everything… Then God Told Him to Get Up | Tyler Tharp’s Story
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About

Welcome to the Defenders LIVE community! This is where you can find information and inspiration to grow as a defender both on and off the range. www.defenders-live.com

Information

  • Creator
    Lora Thorson, Defenders USA
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    121
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Lora T
  • Show Website
    Defenders LIVE Podcast